How do they find microchipped dogs? - briefly
Microchipped dogs are found using specialized scanners that detect radio frequency identification (RFID) chips implanted under their skin. When a lost dog is brought to a shelter or veterinary clinic, staff use these scanners to read the unique identifier from the chip, which is then matched with the pet's information in a national database to reunite the dog with its owner.
How do they find microchipped dogs? - in detail
Microchipping dogs has become an increasingly common practice, providing pet owners with peace of mind and significantly improving the chances of reuniting lost pets with their families. The process of finding a microchipped dog involves several key steps, each playing a crucial role in the successful recovery of the animal.
Firstly, when a dog is found by an individual or an organization such as a shelter or veterinary clinic, it is typically scanned for a microchip using a universal scanner. These scanners are designed to detect radio frequency identification (RFID) chips that have been implanted under the skin of the animal, usually between the shoulder blades. The chip itself is small, about the size of a grain of rice, and contains a unique identification number that is encoded within it.
Once the microchip is detected and its unique ID number is read by the scanner, this information is then used to trace the dog's ownership. Various databases are maintained by companies such as PetLink, HomeAgain, and others, which store the registration details associated with each microchip ID. These details typically include the pet owner's contact information, such as their name, address, and phone number.
After obtaining the unique ID number from the scanned chip, animal control officers or shelter staff will search the appropriate database to find a match. Once the dog is identified, they can then contact the registered owner using the stored contact information. This process allows for a swift reunion between the pet and its family, often within hours of the dog being found.
It is important to note that the effectiveness of this system relies heavily on the accuracy and up-to-date status of the registration details in the database. Owners are responsible for ensuring that their contact information is current, as outdated or incorrect records can significantly hinder the recovery process. Additionally, some dogs may not have been registered at all, which emphasizes the importance of promptly updating any changes in ownership or contact details after microchipping a pet.
In summary, the process of finding a microchipped dog involves scanning the animal for a microchip, retrieving its unique ID number, searching relevant databases to identify the owner, and then contacting the registered owner to facilitate a quick reunion. This systematic approach has proven to be highly effective in reuniting lost pets with their families, underscoring the value of microchipping as a vital tool in pet safety and recovery efforts.